Tag: Gov. Walz

Gov. Walz’s March 25 COVID-19 Update

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March 24, 2020

Below is an update on the COVID-19 pandemic as it pertains to Minnesota as of 8:30 PM on 3/24/2020.

Updates from the Governor

Governor Walz held a press call with the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) today to provide updates on COVID-19 and remind Minnesotans of some of the benefits and programs Minnesota is offering amid the pandemic:

MNsure – Last week, Governor Walz and MNsure announced a 30-day special enrollment period (SEP) for qualified individuals who are currently without insurance as a result of the growth of COVID-19 cases. The SEP opened on March 23 and runs through April 21. It will allow uninsured individuals 30 days to enroll in health insurance coverage through MNsure.org.

Unemployment Insurance – We know the hardships and stress this pandemic is bringing to families and folks throughout the state. The Governor highlighted the state’s unemployment insurance program and described how it quickly serves employees who are unable to work as a result of COVID-19.

Continue reading “Gov. Walz’s March 25 COVID-19 Update”

Walz: Most will recover, but 40-80% of Minnesotans will get the coronavirus

Walz discussed at length the possibility of a stay-at-home order for Minnesota.

Gov. Tim Walz said Monday that millions of Minnesotans should expect to get the novel coronavirus before the pandemic is over, but also making the critically important note that the vast majority of those who get it will recover.

“Before we’re done with this, each and everyone of us will be touched by this, probably very personally,” said Walz, speaking from the governor’s mansion in self-quarantine after being exposed to a member of his security detail who has COVID-19.

“The numbers run pretty high that over the course of this that between 40 and 80 percent of Minnesotans will have become infected with COVID-19,” he said. “The vast majority will recover without hospitalization. Those that need it, we need to ensure they’re able to get it. This whole battle is about bending the curve, lengthening out the time of an infection rate.” Continue reading.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to self-quarantine after contact with confirmed case of COVID-19

A member of the governor’s security staff tested positive for the disease.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has gone into self-quarantine and is working from home after being exposed to someone with COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.

The governor found out about his exposure Monday morning and has not left his home. Walz is not showing any symptoms of the disease but will follow the 14-day self-quarantine guidelines that health officials recommend after coming into contact with a known COVID-19 carrier.

Gov. Walz’s COVID-19 Update: March 23, 2020

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March 23, 2020

Below is an update on the COVID-19 pandemic as it pertains to Minnesota as of 4:30 PM on 3/23/2020.

Updates from the Governor

Governor Walz today announced he will self-quarantine for 14 days after learning he had contact with an individual who tested positive for COVID-19. The Governor was informed of the contact early this morning and has not left his home since.

“The most important thing Minnesotans can do to stop the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home,” said Governor Walz. “I’m using this as an opportunity to lead by example. Though I’m feeling healthy and not showing any symptoms, I’m going to work from home and model the protocol we are asking all Minnesotans to follow.”

“Because our state must maintain essential services, not every Minnesotan is able to stay home,” continued Governor Walz. “Those of us who are able to work from home must do so out of respect to our health care professionals, first responders, pharmacists, grocers, child care providers, and all Minnesotans who are working to keep us safe during this crisis.”  Continue reading “Gov. Walz’s COVID-19 Update: March 23, 2020”

Gov. Walz’s COVID-19 Update: March 22, 2020

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March 22, 2020

Below is an update on the COVID-19 pandemic as it pertains to Minnesota as of 4:30 PM on 3/22/2020.

Updates from the Governor

Yesterday, Governor Walz announced a new Executive Order, which authorizes the Minnesota National Guard to provide assistance during the COVID-19 peacetime emergency. The Minnesota National Guard’s initial mission is to transport personal protective equipment (PPE), such as protective face masks, from storage at Camp Ripley to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).

Executive Order 20-13 helps address the critically low supply of PPE in Minnesota’s hospitals and health care facilities, as well as the delivery delays from the federal government’s Strategic National Stockpile.

“In times of need, Minnesotans pull together to make sure we have the resources and supplies we need to get through challenges,” said Governor Walz. “Minnesota’s hospitals, health care facilities, and first responders are in desperate need of personal protective equipment, and I’m grateful to have the Minnesota National Guard’s partnership in delivering these supplies for Minnesotans.” Continue reading “Gov. Walz’s COVID-19 Update: March 22, 2020”

Minnesota COVID-19 Update: March 21, 2020

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March 21, 2020

Below is an update on the COVID-19 pandemic as it pertains to Minnesota as of 5:40 PM on 3/21/2020.
Updates from the Governor

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) today reported the first confirmed death of a Minnesota resident due to COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.

The death of the Ramsey County resident occurred March 19. The person had recently tested positive for COVID-19 and was in their 80s.

“Gwen and I extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones during this time of loss,” said Governor Tim Walz. “As COVID-19 continues to spread in Minnesota, we must all do what we can to keep each other safe.”

Continue reading “Minnesota COVID-19 Update: March 21, 2020”

Gov. Walz’s Minnesota COVID-19 Update: March 20, 2020

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March 20, 2020

Below is an update on the COVID-19 pandemic as it pertains to Minnesota as of 5:15 PM on 3/20/2020.

Updates from the Governor

Governor Tim Walz joined the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and public health leaders today for a detailed briefing on the state’s COVID-19 response. To streamline future state updates and information related to the pandemic, the Governor will convene press briefings every weekday at 2pm. Tune in live on the Governor’s Facebook page.

Ban on Price Gouging

Governor Walz worked with Attorney General Keith Ellison to ban price gouging in Minnesota. Over the last weeks, across our state and country, we heard reports of people trying to make a buck off this crisis. One store advertised hand sanitizer for $60 a bottle. A convenience store offered toilet paper at $10 a roll next to a sign reading: “This is not a joke.”

That behavior hurts Minnesotans. Executive Order 20-10 prohibits price gouging during the peacetime emergency. The order takes effect Saturday, March 21 at 5:00 p.m. Continue reading “Gov. Walz’s Minnesota COVID-19 Update: March 20, 2020”

Rep. Lesch applauds Gov. Walz for anti-price gouging order; remains committed to enacting measure into law

House DFL logoSAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA – Yesterday, Governor Tim Walz issued an executive order prohibiting price gouging during the current peacetime emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic starting tomorrow at 5:00 p.m. The measure bans the unconscionably excessive pricing of essential consumer goods and services such as food, water, fuel, gasoline, housing, shelter, transportation, health care goods and services, pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, and personal hygiene, sanitation, and cleaning goods.

“If you’ve seen grocery store shelves, it’s clear that some food and some household supplies are scarce, and it’s inexcusable for retailers to take advantage of this opportunity to make a quick buck off the backs of consumers. As Minnesotans, it’s up to us to say ‘no way’ and stop this price gouging,” said Rep. John Lesch (DFL – Saint Paul), chief author of legislation to ban price gouging during an emergency or other abnormal market disruption. “I thank Governor Walz for his leadership during this challenging time for Minnesotans. His order today is another example of how we will emerge from this crisis by protecting the health and economic wellbeing of Minnesotans. We will continue our work to enact strong anti-price gouging legislation to protect consumers now and in the future.”

Individuals found to be in violation are subject to investigation and enforcement by the Attorney General’s office. This executive order brings Minnesota, which does not have a statute on price gouging, in line with most other states.

Minnesotans are encouraged to report instances of price gouging by calling Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison’s office at 651-296-3353 or 800-657-3787. Callers can ask for a translator at these numbers as well. Complaints can be made online at www.ag.state.mn.us/office/complaint.asp.

Rep. Liebling applauds Gov. Walz executive orders providing flexibility for DHS services

House DFL logoSAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA – Today, Governor Tim Walz issued executive orders to ensure critical services continue for the state’s most vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Executive Order 20-11 authorizes the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) to seek federal authority to temporarily waive or modify certain requirements for federal programs, including the Minnesota Family Investment Program, Medical Assistance, and MinnesotaCare, to ensure these programs continue providing necessary support to Minnesota families.

Executive Order 20-12 allows DHS to temporarily issue waivers or modifications to state requirements to ensure that their services can be delivered to Minnesotans safely and without undue delay, protecting vulnerable Minnesotans and those who care for them. DHS provides health care coverage, programs, and services for over 1 million Minnesotans, including groups likely to be significantly impacted by COVID-19 such as older adults, individuals who have disabilities, families with children, and individuals with mental illness.

Rep. Tina Liebling, chair of the House Health and Human Services Finance Division, issued the following statement:

“The services many vulnerable Minnesotans rely on are still necessary during the global pandemic. DHS and their partner organizations need flexibility to deliver these services. Lawmakers worked diligently across party lines and with Governor Walz’s administration to reach consensus on giving DHS this emergency authority. Our work is reflected in what the Governor announced today. I thank Governor Walz and DHS Commissioner Harpstead for their leadership. Today’s executive order will help ensure that services for people with disabilities, mental health support, childcare, housing, and other critical public health programs and services can continue. We will keep working to ensure that all Minnesotans can be safe, healthy, and well during this challenging time.”

Gov. Walz COVID-19 Response and Preparation: March 19, 2020

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March 19, 2020

Below is an update on the COVID-19 pandemic as it pertains to Minnesota as of 6:00 PM on 3/19/2020.

Updates from the Governor

Governor Tim Walz signed an executive order today ordering health care providers to prioritize COVID-19 care by postponing elective surgeries, including elective dental procedures.

This order complies with guidance issued on March 17, 2020, from the Centers on Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as similar guidance from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued on March 18, 2020, to delay elective surgeries and procedures, both to conserve health care resources and to reduce contact between patients and providers.

Continue reading “Gov. Walz COVID-19 Response and Preparation: March 19, 2020”